'CPM leader warned me of govt's plan'; Former board member Ajay Tharayil responds

PATHANAMTHITTA: Former Devaswom board member Ajay Tharayil said that although he was responsible as an office bearer for the construction of the flagpole in Sabarimala, it was the Advocate Commissioner, Thiruvabharanam Commissioner and Chief Engineer who fully implemented the project as per the High Court's instructions. Tharayil said that Phoenix Group sponsored 9161 grams of gold. Ajay Tharayil also clarified to the media that the gold plating process took place in Pamba.

“412 grams of gold were received from devotees in excess in 2017. 9.34 kilograms of gold were used for the construction of the flagpole. All the documents are recorded in the Mahazar. This bill was passed by the Devaswom Board. The documents have also been submitted to the High Court. Which devotee gave gold beyond 412 grams there? Do you think Devaswom Board President and members have nothing else to do than give receipts?

The other day, a CPM leader asked me to be cautious. He said that the government is planning to question me when VD Satheesan's ‘jadha’ comes to Ernakulam. This is proof that I am leading an honest life among gold thieves,” Ajay Tharayil clarified.